Emotional Literacy Support Assistant

Supply Desk; Southampton; On-site; GBP 16,000 - 18,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Refer a Friend bonus

CPD opportunities

Competitive pay rates

Consultant support

Job summary

Supply Desk Ltd is seeking a fully qualified Emotional Literacy Support Assistant to join a primary school in Southampton. You will work 1:1 and in small groups with pupils aged 4–11, providing targeted emotional support and guidance.

Experience with Bucket Time and LEGO-based therapy is desirable, with potential to extend hours as a general Teaching Assistant in the mornings.

Qualifications

• Certified ELSA qualification (essential).
• Experience supporting children in a primary school setting.
• Confident delivering emotional literacy interventions.
• Committed, empathetic, and enthusiastic about supporting children’s wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Provide targeted support for pupils across Key Stage 1 and 2 (ages 4–11).
• Work 1:1 and in small groups with children needing emotional support and guidance.
• Deliver interventions such as Bucket Time and LEGO-based therapy.
• Potential to extend hours by working as a general Teaching Assistant in the mornings.

Skills

ELSA qualification

Primary school experience

Emotional literacy interventions

Bucket Time

LEGO-based therapy

Job description

Supply Desk Ltd

Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) – Full time Southampton

Are you a qualified and passionate ELSA looking to make a real difference in children’s lives?
Do you have the empathy and expertise to support emotional wellbeing across a vibrant, inclusive primary school?

Supply Desk is seeking a trained ELSA to join an average sized, welcoming primary school in Southampton
Start Date: October 2026
Contract: Long-term (with potential to become permanent)
Hours: Full time
Pay: £85–£100 per day (depending on experience)

About the Role:

We are looking for a fully qualified Emotional Literacy Support Assistant to provide targeted support for pupils across Key Stage 1 and 2 (ages 4–11). This role involves working 1:1 and in small groups with children who need emotional support and guidance.

Experience in interventions such as Bucket Time and LEGO®-based therapy is highly desirable.

There may also be an opportunity to extend your hours by working as a general Teaching Assistant in the mornings.

The School:

• Ofsted-rated ‘Good’ with a strong focus on high expectations and consistency
• Inclusive ethos with a high number of pupils with SEND
• A warm, supportive staff team who value collaboration and kindness
• Core values of Respect, Excellence, and Pride

Candidate Requirements:

• Certified ELSA qualification (essential)
• Experience supporting children in a primary school setting
• Confident delivering emotional literacy interventions
• Committed, empathetic, and enthusiastic about supporting children’s wellbeing

Why Join Supply Desk?

• Dedicated consultant support
• Excellent CPD opportunities
• Competitive pay rates
• Refer a Friend bonus – earn up to £100 for referring a Teacher, TA, or Nursery Nurse

Safeguarding Statement:

Supply Desk is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people. All successful applicants will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check and meet Safer Recruitment standards.